Independent Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse
Northern Ireland
What is a Domestic Homicide Review?
A Domestic Homicide Review is fundamentally a learning and prevention process, not a criminal investigation. Criminal responsibility is dealt with through the courts, whereas the DHR and families ask:
- What did agencies know?
- What actions were taken?
- Were there missed opportunities?
- What changes could reduce the risk of future deaths?
AAFDA provides independent advocacy and support for families bereaved by fatal domestic abuse across Northern Ireland. Our service is independent from the police, criminal justice agencies, government departments, and review processes. We work solely in the interests of bereaved families, ensuring their voices are heard.
Following the death of a loved one, families often find themselves navigating complex investigations, inquests and reviews, at a time of profound grief. Our advocates provide impartial information, practical guidance, and emotional support, helping families understand what is happening and what options are available to them.
Our role is to stand alongside families, offering independent support and advocacy throughout their journey.
How we can help:
- Independent advocacy focused entirely on the needs of bereaved families
- Information and guidance following a domestic abuse-related death specifically Domestic Homicide
- Support before, during, and after criminal justice proceedings, for example: inquests and reviews
- Assistance in understanding legal and procedural processes
- Ensuring families' views, concerns, and experiences are heard and respected
- Promoting learning and systemic change to help prevent future deaths
AAFDA is committed to providing a compassionate, confidential, and independent service, ensuring that no family has to face the aftermath of fatal domestic abuse alone.
Currently, the Domestic Homicide Review process in Northern Ireland focuses exclusively on cases involving a domestic homicide. Reviews are undertaken to establish whether there were opportunities for intervention, to identify good practice and service gaps, and to make recommendations aimed at reducing the risk of future domestic abuse-related deaths.
AAFDA is a charity and our services are free.
If you wish to have a chat, please call 07887 488464 or email help@aafda.org.uk
FURTHER INFORMATION:
Multi Agency Domestic Homicide Review Guidance | Department of Justice
The Criminal Justice (Northern Ireland) Order 2008
Coroners Service for Northern Ireland | Department of Justice
ASSIST NI – Domestic and Sexual Abuse Advocacy Service
